Pearson, G. C. (Gustavus C.), 1827-1911

Gustavus C. Pearson was born at Ravenna, Ohio on July 17, 1827. He and his father, Judge John Pearson, came separately to California from Illinois in 1849 for the Gold Rush. Gustavus travelled overland through Salt Lake City, and, on Brigham Young's recommendation, created with his companions the first wagon road from Salt Lake City to Los Angeles via San Bernardino. After his involvement in the Gold Rush, Gustavus returned to Chicago, where he remained until 1867. On his return to California, Gustavus located at Vallejo and entered into partnership with A.D. Starr, to operate a milling and grain-shipping business under the name of Pearson & Starr. The Starr Mills, which they built at Vallejo, was one of the largest mills of its day. Gustavus eventually returned East, settling in Danville, Illinois in 1879.